As part of the preparations, the PSLV-C60 launch vehicle was successfully integrated and moved to the First Launch Pad on December 21 for further satellite integration and final launch preparations. ISRO also shared a time-lapse video on its official X account, showing the rocket’s movement to the First Launch Pad, fully integrated up to PS4 at the PIF facility.
???? Enjoy the fast time-lapse video!
PSLV-C60, fully integrated up to PS4 at the PIF facility for the first time, was moved to the MST at the First Launch Pad—over 3 hours captured in just a few seconds. ????️#ISRO #PSLVC60 #SPADEX pic.twitter.com/eaje72wFDD— ISRO (@isro) December 23, 2024
On December 30, ISRO will offer the public a chance to witness the launch live at the Launch View Gallery. Those interested in attending must register on the ISRO website, with registration opening on Monday at 6 pm.
The SpaDeX mission is a cost-effective technology demonstrator designed to showcase the potential for in-space docking, a critical capability for India’s growing space ambitions. According to ISRO, this technology will be key for future projects like lunar exploration, including India’s lunar missions and sample return from the Moon, as well as the establishment of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS).
In-space docking is crucial when multiple rocket launches are needed to achieve shared mission objectives. With the success of SpaDeX, India aims to join the ranks of just three other nations that possess space docking technology, ISRO highlighted.
The SpaDeX mission will deploy two small spacecraft, each weighing about 220 kg, into a 470 km circular orbit with a 55° inclination. The spacecraft, designated SDX01 (the Chaser) and SDX02 (the Target), will rendezvous and dock in low-Earth orbit, a significant step forward in demonstrating India’s capabilities in space docking.
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